TOWN OF ONONDAGA -- Update (10:00pm):
A local motorcyclist is dead after crashing his bike during a ride protesting the state's mandatory helmet law.
State Police say 55-year-old Philip Contos, of Parish, lost control of his 1993 Harley Davidson on Route 11 in the town of Onondaga. He was thrown over his handlebars and sustained serious head injuries in the crash. He was taken to University Hospital where he later died.
For more than 20 years, the American Bikers Aimed Toward Education -- or ABATE -- puts on an independce, freedom ride in protest of the state's mandatory helmet law. The ride starts in Syracuse and ends in Cortland where motorcylists and their families spend the holiday weekend.
"We agree if you want to wear one, wear one, but we disagree that we're forced to wear a helmet," said Sonny Schiebler, of ABATE.
Contos was participating in the ride and, like many motorcyclists, State police say he was not wearing a helmet when he crashed. According to troopers, medical personal on the scene say wearing a helmet would have saved his life.
The news of this death is spreading through the motorcycle community. While many say this is a tragedy, they say wearing a helmet should be a personal choice for motorcyclists, not the law.
Update (5:10 pm): From State Police:
State Police in Lafayette are investigating a fatal motorcycle crash that occurred at 1:30pm on State Route 11 in the Town of Onondaga, Onondaga County.
The driver of the motorcycle, 55 year-old, Philip A. Contos from 45 Easy Street in Parish, NY was driving a 1993 Harley Davidson travelling southbound with a large group of motorcycles when he hit his brakes, began fishtailing and lost control. Contos was ejected over the handlebars landing on the pavement and sustaining head injuries. Contos was not wearing a helmet and was reportedly participating in a helmet protest ride. He was transported to Upstate University Hospital where he died.
Evidence at the scene coupled with information from the attending medical expert indicated the driver would have survived had he been wearing a DOT-Approved helmet as required by law. We would like to remind all motorists including motorcyclists, to drive safely, soberly, and obey all rules of the road to ensure an enjoyable 4th of July Holiday.
We have a crew on the scene and will bring you updates as soon as we receive them.
